The French International Rugby Board (IRB) chairman (pictured top), who led the successful campaign to reintroduce rugby to the Olympics when it makes its return at Rio 2016, insisted SportAccord must "sit at the centre of the political agenda" and contribute to sporting debates, giving the examples of in legal and regulatory matters.

"I am passionate about sport and I believe in SportAccord," said Lapasset, who declared more than a month ago that he was going to stand.

"I want to see International Federations work together to promote and protect the collective interests of sport, which is why my vision is of evolution through unity and good governance.

"We need to collaborate for the benefit of all sports, while respecting and embracing the diversity of sport.

"Today, I am presenting my campaign manifesto which includes the four key principles that will underpin and define my Presidency if I am successful.

"There are fantastic opportunities ahead and also some challenges, but I believe I have the vision, experience and passion to help SportAccord thrive; to engage, inspire and excite new generations."


He also outlined his vision for promoting sport as a vehicle for social change and development with a range of projects in areas such as peace, education, the fight against discrimination, good citizenship and health.

"SportAccord must lead the sporting agenda, and if I am successful, I will strive to place it at the heart of all key international sporting and political bodies," Lapasset said.

"What's more, by promoting sport's strong values of inclusivity, tolerance, loyalty and respect, SportAccord can further sport's role as a vehicle of social change."

As reported in insidethegames earlier this month, a "SportAccord Festival" is on the agenda and Lapasset reiterates his plans for the initiative as one of his four campaign principles saying it will be "an opportunity to showcase new sports and formats, to drive commercial revenues and excite new younger audiences".

He says the project will feature groups of sports to "complement the Olympic Movement" and will be used to "build on and enhance SportAccord's existing multisport games".


Lapasset also outlines plans for a "SportAccord Academy" - an online information exchange and "community of best practice" where federations can share knowledge on frameworks, governance and integrity to promote development, while battling illegal betting and doping.

"The SportAccord Academy will be a hub of knowledge and best practice, equipping Federations with the tools they need to drive their sports forward," he added.

"As well as providing information on maximising commercial and marketing opportunities, it will also be a centre of discussion and information on sport's greatest current challenge, the protection of its integrity.

"Through the Academy, SportAccord must be at the forefront of the fight against betting fraud and the promotion of clean sport, encouraging the exchange of knowledge and providing robust information and education for leaders, athletes and officials."

Lapasset is up against International Judo Federation (IJF) President Marius Vizer in the race to replace Hein Verbruggen in the top job at SportAccord.

The new President is due to be elected at the 2013 General Assembly in St Petersburg on May 31.

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


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